The RaceSpace Blog

Training tips, nutrition advice, gear reviews, and race stories from the community.

28 Aug 2026 • by James Baxendale

Periodization 101: Taking Your Endurance Training to the Next Level

Logging junk miles and hoping for the best on race day will only get you so far. To truly peak for your next major endurance event, you need a blueprint. Discover the science of periodization, a strategic method of balancing training volume, intensity, and mandatory recovery so you arrive at the start line unstoppable.

15 Aug 2026 • by James Baxendale

High Altitude vs. Coastal Racing: Mastering the Elevation Shift

Swapping Highveld air for coastal humidity triggers massive physiological shifts. This guide breaks down the science of elevation changes for trail runners. Learn how inland athletes can avoid the sea-level pacing trap, discover the critical acclimatization windows for coastal runners moving to altitude, and master your race-day hydration strategy.

15 Aug 2026 • by James Baxendale

8 Mountain Trail Runs to Conquer This Spring

South Africa’s spring trail calendar is packed with brutal climbs and breath taking ridgelines. We break down the terrain, weather, and altitude challenges of the season's top events. From the coastal roots of the Otter Trail to the dizzying heights of SkyRun, discover eight iconic mountain races to conquer this spring.

06 Aug 2026 • by James Baxendale

Women In Motion: Record Breakers and Rising Stars

Celebrate Women's Month by honoring South Africa’s incredible female distance runners. From historic legends like Elana Meyer and Gerda Steyn to modern trailblazers like Glenrose Xaba, Tayla Kavanagh, and Cian Oldknow, these athletes are dominating road and cross-country events. Watch them chase Olympic qualifying times at pinnacle local races!

24 Jul 2026 • by James Baxendale

Super Shoe Training: Mechanics, Loading, Strategy

Smashing PBs but battling stubborn Achilles niggles? Carbon-plated super shoes are race-day magic, but using them for daily miles is a biomechanical trap. We break down the science of shifting impact loads, why your lower legs are complaining, and how to build the perfect shoe rotation.

24 Jul 2026 • by James Baxendale

The Rhythm of the Run: Tarmac vs. Trail

Chasing that perfect 180 SPM? While a steady cadence builds road-running efficiency, taking that strict rhythm onto a technical South African trail might leave you face-first in the fynbos. Learn how the pros adapt their stride length and foot speed to conquer both flat tarmac and rocky peaks.